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An Oneonta business that helps couples craft a memorable wedding has earned national recognition, two involved said.
Emily VanLaeys of Custom Ceremonies was recently named a recipient of the 2011 WeddingWire Bride's Choice Award for professional wedding officiant, according to a media release.
The awards, in a number of categories, were determined by recent reviews and surveys from more than 750,000 WeddingWire newlyweds, according to the release.
An officiant is anyone who performs a wedding ceremony, WeddingWire spokeswoman Kate Hoffman said. This is the third year for the awards.
"It's always good to be recognized for doing a good job," VanLaeys said.
Her service provides more than a traditional officiant, she said. As a celebrant she works with couples, through an interview, to provide a personalized wedding service.
"It's exclusive to that couple," she said.
WeddingWire provides awards in 20 categories that cover the range of the wedding industry from photographers to florists, Hoffman said. Winners are chosen by past clients. They have shown their commitment to quality, she said.
VanLaeys started the business about three years ago after reading about the service in an article in a wedding magazine, she said.
She has worked as a freelance writer and realized it would be a perfect fit, VanLaeys said. She really enjoys working with people "on one of the most important days of their lives," she said.
She has been married for 34 years, she said.
VanLaeys said she was hopeful the institution has a bright future.
"The people that I marry seem to be full of joy and love. That is what I love about the job," she said.
With eight weddings the first year and 16 in 2010, "I'm doing a little better each year," she said. VanLaeys said she hoped her award will continue that trend.
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